Only about a two/two and a half hour flight from most major cities on the U.S.'s East Coast, Bermuda is one of the most unique islands in the world. Even though the island is a close next door neighbor in the Atlantic, many Americans know very little about it. Here are some fun facts about the self-governed, British Territory:
1. It's home to the world's smallest drawbridge.
The chains and central plank of Somerset Bridge can be lifted to allow a sailboat's mast to fit through.
2. Roofs are used to collect drinking water.
There are no freshwater lakes or rivers on the island; rain is the only source of freshwater. It's collected on the roofs and stored in cisterns under houses.
3. It is not a part of the Caribbean.
Located 600 miles due East of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, Bermuda is too far north to be considered part of the Caribbean..
4. It has pink sand beaches.
The color is caused by red tiny organisms that grow under the coral reefs. When these die, they get mixed with bits of corals ans shells and are pulverized by the waves, creating the fine, pink-hued sand found on a lot of Bermuda's south shore beaches.
5. It's one of the most expensive countries in the world to live in.
It has been at the top of many "top ten" lists for the most expensive places to live based on the cost of groceries, rent, restaurants and other living expenses.
6. KFC is the only fast food franchise on the island.
The "Prohibited Restaurant Act" states that no foreign fast food chains are allowed on the island. The KFC opened before the legislation was introduced, so it's allowed to stay open.
7. Bermuda is home to more golf courses per capita than any other spot in the world.
There are seven 18-hole golf courses and two two 9-hole courses on the island's 20.75 square miles.
8. There is an annual two-day holiday for a cricket match.
Cup Match is considered one of the biggest holidays in Bermuda. It takes place at the end of July, when there's a cricket match between the island's east and west teams.
9. It has the most churches per square mile in the world.
10. Visitors can't rent cars there.
Tourists use mopeds, buses. taxis or ferries to get around. The roads are narrow and winding, so the he highest speed limit anywhere on the island is 35 km/h (approximately 20 mph). Also, people drive on the left side of the road.
